Oral care instrument

ABSTRACT

An oral hygiene implement is described herein. The oral hygiene implement has a handle; a head, and a neck disposed between the handle and the head. The head has a plurality of contact elements. An indication element is positioned between the neck and handle of the oral hygiene element. A transmission element is positioned between the indication element and a light emitting source. The light emitting source provides electromagnetic energy to the transmission element.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention pertains to an oral hygiene implement, moreparticularly to an oral hygiene implement including an indicationelement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The utilization of toothbrushes to clean teeth has long been known.There are two main classes of toothbrushes available for a user, manualtoothbrushes and power toothbrushes. For manual toothbrushes the usergenerally provides the majority of the cleaning motion. In contrast, forpower toothbrushes the majority of the cleaning motion is provided bythe toothbrush. The power toothbrush generally includes a drivemechanism for driving a brush head. Because the toothbrush includes adrive mechanism, power toothbrushes are generally more costly to producethan manual toothbrushes. Power toothbrushes may provide a user withadditional features as well. For example, some power toothbrushes cantrack the time that a brush head is used and indicate to the user thetime for replacement of the brush head. As another example, some powertoothbrushes can provide an indication to the user as to when the userbrushes a predetermined amount of time.

These indication means have traditionally been positioned in the frontof the toothbrush, the area or side having the bristles. However duringuse a toothbrush is moved in many directions, such that an indicationmeans positioned in only one side or area of a toothbrush may not alwaysbe visible to a user. Accordingly, a need exists for a personal hygieneimplement which can provide the user with an indication means that isvisible during use.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An oral hygiene implement is provided that comprises a handle having acircumference, a head, and a neck disposed between the handle and thehead, the head comprising a plurality of contact elements, the oralhygiene implement further comprises an indication element, theindication element having an outer lateral surface; an electromagneticenergy output source; a transmission element in electromagnetic energycommunication with the output source; a transmission element ring havinga bottom edge in electromagnetic energy communication with thetransmission element; and a reflective core disposed within thetransmission element, wherein the reflective core redirectselectromagnetic energy from the output source to the indication element.

An oral hygiene implement is provided that comprises a handle, a head,and a neck disposed between the handle and the head, the head comprisinga plurality of contact elements, the oral hygiene implement furthercomprises an indication element, the indication element having an outerlateral surface; an electromagnetic energy output source; a transmissionelement in electromagnetic energy communication with the output source;a transmission element ring having an outer periphery in electromagneticenergy communication with the transmission element; wherein thetransmission element ring redirects electromagnetic energy from theoutput source to the indication element.

An indicator mechanism is provided that comprises an indication element;an electromagnetic energy output source; a transmission element inelectromagnetic energy communication with the output source; atransmission element ring comprising one or more surface contours inelectromagnetic energy communication with the transmission element;wherein the transmission element ring redirects electromagnetic energyfrom the output source to the indication element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view showing an oral hygiene implement, for example atoothbrush, constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an oral hygiene implement, for example atoothbrush, constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 3A is a frontal view showing an indicator mechanism according to anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of an indicator mechanism according toan embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view of an indicator mechanism according toan embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4A is a close up view showing a portion of FIG. 3.

FIG. 4B is a close up view showing a portion of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an indicator mechanism according toan embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 6A-6F are a close up views showing a portion of an indicatormechanism according to embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a close up view showing a portion of an indicator mechanismaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the indicator mechanism portion ofFIG. 7 along section line 7A-7A.

FIG. 8 is a close up view showing a portion of an indicator mechanismaccording to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the indicator mechanism portion ofFIG. 8 along section line 8A-8A.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an indicator mechanism according to anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9A is a flattened illustrative view of FIG. 9 sectioned throughsection line 9A-9A.

FIG. 9B is a close up view showing a portion of a transmission elementring according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9C is a close up view showing a portion of a transmission elementring according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9D is a side view of a transmission element and transmissionelement ring according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9E is a perspective view of a transmission element and transmissionelement ring according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of an indicator mechanism according toan embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 11A-11D are cross sectional views of exemplary LEDs which aresuitable for use with the oral hygiene implement of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following text sets forth a broad description of numerous differentembodiments of the present invention. The description is to be construedas exemplary only and does not describe every possible embodiment sincedescribing every possible embodiment would be impractical, if notimpossible, and it will be understood that any feature, characteristic,component, composition, ingredient, product, step or methodologydescribed herein can be deleted, combined with or substituted for, inwhole or part, any other feature, characteristic, component,composition, ingredient, product, step or methodology described herein.Numerous alternative embodiments could be implemented, using eithercurrent technology or technology developed after the filing date of thispatent, which would still fall within the scope of the claims.

It should also be understood that, unless a term is expressly defined inthis patent using the sentence “As used herein, the term ‘_(——————)’ ishereby defined to mean . . . ” or a similar sentence, there is no intentto limit the meaning of that term, either expressly or by implication,beyond its plain or ordinary meaning, and such term should not beinterpreted to be limited in scope based on any statement made in anysection of this patent (other than the language of the claims). No termis intended to be essential to the present invention unless so stated.To the extent that any term recited in the claims at the end of thispatent is referred to in this patent in a manner consistent with asingle meaning, that is done for sake of clarity only so as to notconfuse the reader, and it is not intended that such claim term belimited, by implication or otherwise, to that single meaning. Finally,unless a claim element is defined by reciting the word “means” and afunction without the recital of any structure, it is not intended thatthe scope of any claim element be interpreted based on the applicationof 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph.

As used herein “personal hygiene implement” refers to any implementwhich can be utilized for the purposes of personal hygiene. Somesuitable examples include oral hygiene implements, such as toothbrushes,either manual or powered; razors, either manual or powered; shavers,either manual or powered; trimmers, etc.

As used herein, “oral hygiene implement” refers to any device which canbe utilized for the purposes of oral hygiene. Some suitable examples ofsuch devices include toothbrushes (both manual and power), flossers(both manual and power), water picks, and the like.

For ease of explanation, the oral hygiene implement described hereaftershall be a powered toothbrush; however, as stated above, an oral hygieneimplement constructed in accordance with the present invention is notlimited to a powered toothbrush construction. Additionally, theembodiments described hereafter are equally applicable to blades,razors, other personal hygiene implements, or the like.

As shown in FIG. 1, a toothbrush 10 comprises a handle 12, a head 14,and a neck 16 extending between the handle 12 and the head 14. A contactelement field 20 comprising one or more contact elements extends from afirst surface 14A of the head 14. A tongue cleaner, soft tissuecleanser, massaging element, or the like, may be disposed on a secondsurface 14B of the head 14. The tongue cleaners, soft tissue cleansers,massaging elements, or the like, are discussed hereafter.

An indication element 30 may be disposed between the handle 12 and theneck 16 adjacent the proximal end 90. The indication element 30 mayprovide a visible signal to a user for a plurality of conditions. Forexample, the visible signal may be provided when a user has brushed foran adequate amount of time, for example two minutes, when the toothbrushneeds to be replaced, or when the user is brushing too hard as excesspressure can damage gums.

The indication element 30 may be positioned in any suitable location onthe toothbrush 10. For example, in some embodiments, the indicationelement 30 may surround the neck 16 or may surround the handle 12. Asanother example, the indication element 30 may surround a portion of thehandle 12, a portion of the neck 16, or both. As yet another example,the indication element 30 may be disposed on a back-facing surface 40Bof the handle 12, neck 16, or both. As yet another example, theindication element 30 may be disposed on a front-facing surface 40A ofthe handle 12, neck 16, or both.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the contact field element 20 may be mountedon the head 14 such that it can be rotated about an axis 31. The axis 31can be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 21 of the neck 16. Theaxis 31 may also be angled relative to the longitudinal axis 21 of theneck 16. The handle 12 comprises an outer shell 212, forming an interiorsection of the handle 12, with a chassis 35 disposed therein. Fastenedonto the chassis 35 are a drive motor 36, a power source, such as abattery 37, and other electronic components, for example, a chargingcoil 38. Further, a rocker 39 may be mounted on the chassis 35 such thatit can be pivoted about a rocker axis 40. The rocker axis 40 extendstransversely to the longitudinal axis 55 of handle 12. The rocker 39projects out of handle 12. The neck 16 may be releasably attached to theprojecting end of rocker 39. As a result, the neck 16 can be rocked,along with rocker 39, about rocker axis 40.

The annular space between the rocker 39 and the outer shell 212 of thehandle be sealed by a sealing element 270; thereby reducing thelikelihood of leakage into the cavity of the outer shell 212. Thesealing element 270 may comprise any suitable sealing feature. Someexamples of sealing features include deformable materials which can becompressed and then recover within the cavity of the outer shell 212,o-rings, etc. In some embodiments, a soft material may be overmoldedonto the chassis 35, and during assembly of the chassis 35 and outershell 212 the soft material may engage the outer shell 212 to form aseal. In other embodiments, a soft material may be overmolded to theouter shell 212, and subsequently the chassis 35 may be inserted intothe outer shell 212 and engage the soft material. Still in otherembodiments, a soft material may be a discrete element which is eitherplaced on the chassis 35 before attachment of the chassis 35 to theouter shell 212 or is placed on the outer shell 212 prior to theattachment of the chassis 35 to the outer shell 212. In certainembodiments the indication element 30 can seal the annular space betweenthe rocker 39 and the outer shell 212.

Additionally, in certain embodiments, electromagnetic energy, such aslight provided to the indication element 30 may also be provided to thesealing element 270. In the case where the sealing element 270 istransparent, light may be provided to the user via the indicationelement 30 and the sealing element 270. In the case where the sealingelement 270 is translucent, the light may have an intensity or colorcontrast between the light of the sealing element 270 and the indicationelement 30. In the case where the sealing element 270 is pigmented andtranslucent or transparent, the light provided to the indication element30 may blend with the pigment color of the sealing element 270 toproduce a unique visual effect. Accordingly, the light provided maycomprise a first color while the pigmented sealing element 270 maycomprise a second color.

A first drive shaft 42 is disposed within the interior of the rocker 39.In embodiments having a detachable head 14 and neck 16, when the neck 16is attached to the handle 12, the first drive shaft 42 engages in arotationally fixed manner with a second drive shaft 43. The second driveshaft 43 then drives the contact field element 20 in rotation about theaxis of rotation 31 via a bevel-gear stage 44. The motor end of firstdrive shaft 42 is connected to drive motor 36 via a gear mechanism 45.The powered toothbrush 10 further includes, within the handle 12, amotor shaft 46 that projects out from drive motor 36. The continuousrotary movement of motor shaft 46 is converted into a rotary,oscillating movement of first drive shaft 42 by means of gear mechanism45. The result is that contact field element 20 is driven in rotation ina reciprocating manner.

In certain embodiments, a translatory stroke or picking movement ofcontact field element 20 along axis 31 may be produced by the pivotablearrangement of rocker 39. The rocker 39 is seated on a cyclicallymovable drive part 47 (here, a cam), which is designed as an eccentricand is itself seated on the motor shaft 46. The end of the rocker 39that is directed away from contact field element 20 forms a followerpart 48. The follower part 48 follows the curved surface or cyclicmovement of the cam 47, so that rocker 39 executes a reciprocatingrocking movement. For this purpose, a prestressing device 49, forexample a spring, biases the follower part 48 of the rocker 39 againstcam 47. The biasing, via rocker 39, forces the contact field element 20in the direction of its operating side, while the cam 47, by way of itscorresponding curved surface, forces the contact field element 20 in theopposite direction.

A variety of electronic elements may be disposed within the outer shell212. For example, within the outer shell 212 there may be housed, atiming circuit, a processor 240, a printed circuit board (PCB) 242, orelectromagnetic output sources (output sources) 245, for example,audible sources, light sources, LED's, or combinations thereof. Theouter shell 212 may accommodate a plurality of power sources whereadditional voltage is required, for example to provide threshold voltagefor an LED.

The chassis 35 can provide support for the processor 240, or the outputsource 245. The power source 37 can be electrically connected with theprocessor 240, PCB 242, or both, and the processor 240 or PCB 242 can beelectrically connected with the output source 245. As shown in FIG. 2and FIG. 3A the output source 245, for example an LED, may be inelectromagnetic communication with a transmission element 33. Thetransmission element 33 can transmit electromagnetic energy, such aslight from the output source 245 to a transmission element ring 65 andthe indication element 30.

Referring to FIG. 3A, an indicator mechanism 61 is shown, which in thisembodiment comprises a transmission element 33, transmission elementring 65, and an indication element 30. The transmission element 33 isconfigured to transmit electromagnetic energy, such as light from anoutput source 245 to the indication element 30. For example, where theoutput source 245 is an LED, the transmission element 33 may be a lightpipe, light guide, fiber optic, or the like. A transmission element 33may also comprise a transmission element ring 65. The transmissionelement ring 65 laterally extends from the transmission element 33 suchthat it partially or completely traverses the circumference of thetoothbrush handle, so as to spread the distribution of light throughoutthe indication element 30. The material selected for the transmissionelement 33 can be a clear material, transparent material, translucentmaterial, or combinations thereof, which transmit light from the LEDthrough the transmission element 33 to the indication element 30. Someexamples of suitable materials for the transmission element 33 includeglass, polymethylmethacrylate, polycarbonate, copolyester,polypropylene, polyethyleneteraphthalate, silicone, combinationsthereof, for example polyester and polycarbonate, or the like,

In some embodiments, the indication element 30 and the transmissionelement 33 may be unitary. For example, the transmission element 33 andthe indication element 30 may be integrally constructed out of a firstmaterial during an injection molding process. In some embodiments,transmission element 33 may be a discrete part from the indicationelement 30. In those embodiments where the transmission element 33 andindication element 30 are discrete parts, the elements 30, 33 may bepositioned relative to each other in any manner that allows thetransmission of electromagnetic energy from the output source 245,through the transmission element 33 to the indication element 30. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 3B the indication element 30 may be positionedabove the transmission element 33 or as shown in FIG. 3C thetransmission element 33 may be partially nested within the indicationelement 30. With reference back to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, theindication element 30, the transmission element 33, and chassis 35 maybe integrally formed. In some embodiments, the indication element 30 andtransmission element 33 may be integrally formed and subsequentlyattached to the chassis 35. In some embodiments, the indication element30, the transmission element 33, and outer shell 212 may be integrallyformed. In some embodiments, the indication element 30 and the outershell 212 may be integrally formed and the transmission element 33 willbe subsequently attached to the outer shell 212. The benefit of suchembodiments is that a reduced number of components are required for thebrush which can reduce the cost and/or time of assembly.

The transmission element 33 may transmit electromagnetic energy, such aslight, to the indication element 30 by internal reflection or externalreflection. External reflections are reflections where the lightoriginates in a material of low refractive index (such as air) andreflects off of a material with a higher refractive index (such asaluminum or silver). A common household mirror operates on externalreflection.

Internal reflections are reflections where the light originates in amaterial of higher refractive index (such as polycarbonate) and reflectsoff of a material with lower refractive index (such as air or vacuum orwater). Fiber optic technology operates on the principle of internalreflections. Refractive index is an optic attribute of any materialwhich measures the tendency of light to refract, or bend, when passingthrough the material. Even materials that do not conduct light (such asaluminum) have indices of refraction.

Typically, external reflections are most efficient when the angle ofincidence of the light is near-normal (i.e., light approachesperpendicular to the surface) and degrade as the angle of incidenceincreases (approaches the surface at a steep angle). Conversely,internal reflections are most efficient at high angles of incidence andfail to reflect at shallow angles, for example normal to the surface. Inorder to achieve internal reflection, the angle of incidence should begreater than the critical angle. The critical angle is the angle belowwhich light no longer reflects between a pair of materials.

Referring back to FIG. 2, for those embodiments of the present inventionthat utilize external reflection, a foil or some other highly reflectivematerial can be utilized within the outer shell 212, chassis 35, orboth. The highly reflective material, such as foil, can be disposed onthe interior surface 375 of the outer shell 212 or the interior surface377 of the chassis 35. In other embodiments, the highly reflectivematerial, such as foil can be wrapped around the transmission element33.

For those embodiments utilizing internal reflection, a material may beselected having high refractive index, for example above 1.0. Forexample, the material selected for the transmission element 33 maycomprise a refractive index of greater than about 1.4, greater thanabout 1.5, greater than about 1.6, or less than about 1.7, less thanabout 1.6, less than about 1.5, or any number within the values providedor any ranges within the values provided. In some embodiments, thematerial selected for the transmission element 33 has a refractive indexof between about 1.4 to about 1.6.

Referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, in such embodiments, an outer surface 429,1429, of the transmission element 33, 233, may be polished. The polishedouter surface 429, 1429 of the transmission element 33, 233, can reducethe amount of leakage of light from the transmission element 33, 233.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4A, the transmission element 33may comprise a receptacle 453 for receiving the output source 245, suchas an LED. The receptacle 453 may be disposed on an end 455 of thetransmission element 33. One benefit of providing a receptacle 453 onthe end 455 of the transmission element 33 is that during manufacturing,the output source 245, such as an LED, may be inserted into thereceptacle 453 thereby reducing the chance for misalignment of theoutput source 245 with respect to the transmission element 33. This canhelp reduce the amount of leakage of light between the output source 245and the transmission element 33.

As stated previously, to achieve internal reflection, impinging lightmay be above the critical angle. The angle at which light impinges uponthe transmission element 33 can be impacted by the distribution angle(discussed hereafter) of the output source 245 or 1450 (shown in FIG.4B). For those output sources having a small distribution angle, thedesign of the receptacle 453, for example having sides 453A and 453Bperpendicular to face 453C, may be sufficient to capture the majority oflight emitted from the output source 245 for internal reflection.However, any light which is not above the critical angle will generallynot be internally reflected. Accordingly, the sides 453A, 453B and/orthe face 453C may be configured to increase the amount of light which isabove the critical angle. For example, the sides 453A, 453B may betapered toward or away from the face 453C. Similarly, the face 453C mayinclude an angled surface, multiple angled surfaces, curved surfaces,for example lens shaped (convex or concave curvature), to increase theamount of emitted light which is above the critical angle.

Referring to FIG. 4B, in some embodiments, a transmission element 233may be configured with a flat surface on an end 1455 as shown in FIG.4B. In such embodiments, an output source 1450, such as an LED, may bepositioned a distance 1460 away from the end 1455. In an effort toreduce the amount of light leaked from the output source 1450, distanceB (1460) should generally be within the following guidelines.

$B \leq \frac{A}{\tan(\alpha)}$

Where α is the half angle α available from a manufacturer'sspecifications for an output source of light, and where A (1457) is aleg of projection on the transmission element 233. The leg of projection1457 is the straight line distance from the midpoint of the outputsource 1450 projected onto the transmission element 233 to an edge 1459of the transmission element 233.

For those embodiments utilizing internal reflection, the distributionangle of the output source 245, 1450, such as an LED, should beconsidered. If the distribution angle is too broad, a portion of thelight provided to the transmission element 33, 233 may not be internallyreflected and instead will be leaked out of the transmission element 33,233. Any suitable distribution angle may be utilized. Some examples ofsuitable distribution angles include greater than about 0 degrees,greater than about 1 degrees, greater than about 2 degrees, greater thanabout 5 degrees, greater than about 6 degrees, greater than about 8degrees, greater than about 10 degrees, greater than about 12 degrees,greater than about 14 degrees, greater than about 16 degrees, greaterthan about 18 degrees, greater than about 20 degrees, greater than about22 degrees, or less than about 22 degrees, less than about 20 degrees,less than about 18 degrees, less than about 16 degrees, less than about14 degrees, less than about 12 degrees, less than about 10 degrees, lessthan about 8 degrees, or any number within the values provided or anyranges within the values provided.

Referring to FIG. 3A, as stated previously, a transmission element 33can transmit electromagnetic energy, such as light from an output source245 to the indication element 30. In an effort to reduce the amount ofenergy leaked through the transmission element 33, a reflective core 461disposed in the transmission element 33 may be utilized. The reflectivecore 461 can reduce the amount of light which is lost through thetransmission element 33 and transmission element ring 65 into the handleor neck of the brush. Additionally, the reflective core 461 can assistin distributing light through the indication element 30 to the outerlateral surfaces 87 of the indication element 30.

As shown in FIG. 5, the reflective core 461 may comprise one or morefaces 467, which may be polished, disposed within the transmissionelement 33. The faces 467 can be configured to redirect light 71transmitted through the transmission element to the indication element30.

The faces 467 of the reflective core 461 may be configured in a wedgeshape, or any other shape, such as a cone, that will facilitate thedispersion of electromagnetic energy, such as light, towards theindication element 30. The faces 467 of the reflective core 461 may beof any shape to facilitate dispersion of electromagnetic energy towardsthe indication element 30, for example, as shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C,along any portion of their length or along their entire length one ormore of the faces 467 may be curved, straight, notched, U-shaped or anycombination thereof. In addition to assist in the dispersion ofelectromagnetic energy to the indication element the reflective core mayhave any number of faces, as shown in FIGS. 6D and 6E. For example, asshown in FIG. 6E the reflective core 461 has seven faces 467A, 467B,467C, 467D, 467E, 467F, 467G. Further, as shown in FIG. 6F atransmission element 33 may also have a front side 134 and a back side135 and the shape of the reflective core 461 on the front side 134 ofthe transmission element 33 can differ from the shape of the reflectivecore 461 on the backside 135 of the transmission element 33. In certainembodiments the reflective core 461 penetrates completely through thetransmission element 33 to form a passageway from the front side 134 ofthe transmission element 33 to the back side 135 of the transmissionelement 33. In other embodiments the reflective core 461 does notcompletely penetrate the transmission element 33. In still otherembodiments the reflective core 461 does not penetrate the transmissionelement 33 at all, but is instead integral with the transmission element33, for example the reflective core 461 may comprise reflective surfacesembedded within the transmission element 33. Further in cross-sectionthe faces of the reflective core may be angled, curved, or otherwiseshaped to increase the reflection of light towards the indicationelement. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 7A the faces 467 of thereflective core 461 may be curved in cross-section, while FIGS. 8 and 8Ashow the faces 467 are angled away from the front side 134 of thetransmission element 33 towards the backside 135 of the transmissionelement 33.

Referring back to FIG. 5, the reflective core 461 as shown can be arecess which remains empty in the final product. In certain embodiments,the reflective core 461 may be partially filled with a material. Wherethe reflective core 461 is partially filled, an air gap between thefilling material and the faces 467 may be provided. The existence ofthis air gap can ensure that internal reflection is maintained withinthe indication element 30. In some embodiments, the reflective core 461may be completely filled with material which has a lower refractiveindex than that of the material of the reflective core.

It is believed that without the reflective core 461 less than about 10percent of the light provided by the output source would be emitted bythe indication element 30. And, it is believed that with the reflectivecore 461 about 90 percent or more of the light provided by the outputsource 245 would be emitted by the indication element 30. In certainembodiments, the light emitted by the indication element 30 is greaterthan about 10 percent of the light provided by the output source,greater than about 20 percent, greater than about 30 percent, greaterthan about 40 percent, greater than about 50 percent, greater than about60 percent, greater than about 70 percent, greater than about 80percent, greater than about 90 percent, less than about 100 percent,less than about 90 percent, less than about 80 percent, less than about70 percent, less than about 60 percent, less than about 50 percent, lessthan about 40 percent, less than about 30 percent, less than about 20percent, or any number within the values listed above or any rangescomprising and/or within the values above. A test method for measuringthe light emission efficiency is discussed hereafter.

FIG. 9 shows electromagnetic energy, such as light 71, from an outputsource 245, such as an LED, travels along the transmission element 33towards the indication element 30. In certain embodiments at least aportion of the light travelling towards the indication element 30 alongthe transmission element 33 is reflected off of the faces 467 of thereflective core 461 back towards the transmission element 33. This lightis redirected towards the bottom edge 67 of the transmission elementring 65. In certain embodiments to produce a constant light distributionall around the circumference of the indication element 30, thereflective core 461 redirects the light beams 71 that are coming fromthe output source 245 through the transmission element 33, in such amanner that a constant density of light beams 71 are achieved on thebottom edge 67 of the transmission element ring 65. By choosing theright angle and shape (for example curved) of the reflective core anexpansion of the light can be realized—through the production of aconstant light density on the bottom edge 67. For illustration purposesFIG. 9A, which is a depiction of FIG. 9 having a lateral cut through thetransmission element 33, and the resulting transmission element 33 andtransmission element ring 65 opened up and flattened out, shows how thereflective core 461 distributes light beams 71 around the circumferenceof the transmission element ring 65.

The bottom edge 67 of the transmission element ring 65 has a reflectivesurface to further redirect the light towards the indication element 30.The reflective surface of the transmission element ring can be coatedwith a reflective material or as shown in FIG. 9 can be comprised ofsurface contours 83 that are formed in such a manner to redirect thelight towards the indication element 30, or both reflective coatings andsurface contours can be used.

FIG. 9 shows a series of surface contours 83, in this instance in theshape of reflective teeth, which comprise two angled sides to produce atriangular protrusion. In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 9B tosubstantially use internal reflection, the surface contours have anorientation (angle α1 and α2) such that the light contacts the surfaceof a surface contour 83 on an angle below the critical angle. Further,in certain embodiments the angles (α1 and α2) may change depending onthe position of the surface contour on the transmission element ring 65,for example the angles could change depending on the distance from thereflective core. The angle of α1 and α2 may be in the range of 0-45°.FIG. 9C shows that in addition to triangular surface contours, archedsurface contours can be used, which can expand the light to create amore homogenous light distribution on the indication element. In certainembodiments, surface contours may have the following dimensions ofheight (H); width (W); and distance between adjacent surface contours(D):H≦W/2D≧0

The height H of a surface contour may be H≦3 mm, for example in certainembodiments, 0.5 mm≦H≦1 mm. Further, the position of the surface contouron the transmission element ring may affect the H, W, or D.

As shown in FIG. 9 the redirection of the light due to the surfacecontours 83 of the bottom edge 67 of the transmission element ring 65allows light to be emitted from all outer lateral surfaces 87 of theindication element 30 providing an all around 360° effect. In certainembodiments, near the reflective core 461 where the light has a highintensity, less surface contours 83 can be used, while further away fromthe reflective core 461, such as at the backside 101, where the lightintensity is already reduced, more surface contours 83 can be used toachieve a similar light intensity along the indication element 30.Otherwise, the indication element 30 may appear much brighter near thereflective core 461/output source 245 and much darker at areas furtheraway from the reflective core 461/output source 245.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 9D and 9E, the transmissionelement 33 may be non-linear along its length, such that thetransmission element 33 might contain one or more angles, or as shown inFIGS. 9D and 9E, one or more curves. Such an orientation of thetransmission element 33 is beneficial in certain embodiments, when forexample as in a powered toothbrush there may be obstructions, such asmotors or batteries, between the output source and the indicationelement. Therefore, the non-linear orientation of the transmissionelement 33 allows for the transfer of light to the transmission elementring 65 and indication element 30 from the output source 245 even when adirect path is obstructed. The transmission element may also connect tothe transmission element ring at any point along the transmissionelement ring that allows for the transmission of light from thetransmission element. In addition, the surface contours may be presenton any surface or surfaces of the transmission element ring. For exampleas shown in FIG. 9E the surface contours 83 are positioned on the innersurface of the transmission element ring 65, such that the light isreflected outwards towards the indication element 30, which in thisembodiment is positioned at least partially along the outer periphery 66of the transmission element ring 65. FIGS. 9D and 9E also demonstratethat a reflective core is not present in certain embodiments, as thetransmission element 33 and transmission element ring 65 are able todistribute the light to the indication element.

With reference back to FIG. 9 the redirected light from the bottom edge67 of the transmission element ring 65 enters the indication element 30where it is directed towards the outer lateral surface 87 of theindication element 30 or in certain embodiments would be reflected off asurface of the indication element 30, for example the top surface 91 orinner surface 93, which may be coated with a reflective material. Incertain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 10, the top surface 91, innersurface 93, or both may be formed in a manner to redirect light 71towards the outer lateral surface 87 of the indication element 30, forexample the top surface 91 or inner surface 93 may be curved or in thecase of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 the surfaces may be angled.

Additionally, embodiments comprising multiple output sources arecontemplated. For example, a receptacle may be configured such that twoLEDs may be positioned therein. In certain embodiments where an LEDprovides a signal a first LED may provide a first output signal for onecondition, for example brushing time, while a second LED may provide asecond output signal for a second condition, for example time for brushreplacement, wherein the first output signal and the second outputsignal are different. Similarly, in embodiments where the transmissionelement does not include a receptacle, a plurality of output sources,for example LEDs, may be utilized.

In addition, certain embodiments are also contemplated where the outputsource comprises an LED having multiple dices as described in U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0053896A1. As shown in FIG. 11A,an LED 815 may include a lens 830, and one positive lead 821 and onenegative lead 809. The LED 815 may comprise more than one light emitterand more than one semi-conductor substrate, and can have more than twoleads. Embodiments are contemplated where the LED comprises two dices.Additionally, embodiments are contemplated where the LED comprises morethan two dices.

For example, the LED 815 may comprise multiple light emitting dices 805and 817 and a wire bonding 807 and 818. The wire bonding 818 may serveas the connection between the dices 805 and 817. This connection can beeither a parallel connection or a serial connection.

As shown in FIG. 11B, an LED 815B (two wire LED) may comprise multipledices 805 and 817 connected in series. The LED 815B may include onepositive lead 809 and one negative lead 827. As shown, each dice 805 and817 may have an individual pedestal 837 and 839. The dices have a serialconnection 811 connecting the top of dices 805 to the bottom of dices817, and wire bonding 813 connects the top of dices 817 to the negativelead 827. All light from the light emitting sources may be combined toresult in a single light output at lens 830 of LED 815B.

As shown in FIG. 11C, an LED 815C may include multiple dices 805 and 817connected in parallel. The LED 815C may comprise a single light output,the lens 830, and one positive lead 809, and one negative lead 827. Thedices may have a parallel connection, wire bonding 837 connecting thetop of dices 805 to the top of dices 817, and wire bonding 807connecting the top of dices 817 to the top of the common negative lead827. All light from the light emitting sources can be combined to resultin a single light output at lens 830 of LED 815C.

As shown in FIG. 11D, an LED 815D (three wire LED) may include multipledices 805 and 817. The LED 815D may comprise a lens 830, twosemiconductor substrates, dices 805 and 817 shown connected in parallel,wire bondings 819 and 821, one positive lead 833, and two negative leads831 and 835. This LED 815D also emits light from a single light output,the lens 830. Each dice may have an individual pedestal 837 and 839. Itis also contemplated that the LED 815D can comprise two positive leads,and one negative lead; and the dices 805 and 817 can be connected inseries.

Additionally, the LED can comprise more than two semi-conductorsubstrates having light emitting properties, and the LED can comprisemore than two leads. The LED can have a common or shared lead, or canhave individual leads for each semi-conductor substrate having lightemitting properties. Further, each semi-conductor substrate having lightemitting properties can be individually powered by a separate powersource, such as a battery.

One advantage of a three wire LED, for example LED 815D, is that thedices 805 and 817 may be independently operated. For example, where theLED 815D comprises two positive leads, the dices may be independentlycontrolled. So, the first dice 805 may be operated at eighty percentcapacity while the second dice 807 is operated at twenty percentcapacity. As another example, the first dice 805 may be operated atfifty percent while the second dice 817 is operated at 100 percent.There are countless combinations for operating levels of the first dice805 and the second dice 817. It is believed that such combinations canachieve color blends which create a unique visual effect for the user.

For two wire LEDs light blends are also possible. For example, thepolarity of the supply voltage can be switched at a high enough rate,for example higher than 70 Hz, such that the dices can be driven andcreate a blended color effect. When the polarity of the supply voltageis in a first state, a first dice may be energized. When the polarity ofthe supply voltage is in a second state, a second dice may be energized.If the polarity of the supply voltage is switched fast enough, a usermay perceive a color blend. The switching rate of the polarity of thesupply voltage may be greater than about 70 Hz, greater than about 80Hz, greater than about 90 Hz, greater than about 100 Hz, greater thanabout 110 Hz, greater than about 120 Hz, greater than about 130 Hz, lessthan about 130 Hz, less than about 120 Hz, less than about 110 Hz, lessthan about 100 Hz, less than about 90 Hz, or any number within thevalues provided or any ranges within the values provided.

As stated above, these dices can be electrically connected in parallelor in series. When they are connected in series, all currentconsiderations are the same as for one single dice. The total voltagecan be approximated by the equation below:V=V _(f1) +V _(f2) + . . . +V _(fn)

where n is equal to the number of dices and V_(f)=forward voltage for aparticular dice. If the dices are connected in parallel, the totalvoltage is approximately that of a single dice.

Serial connection works well because it adjusts for differences betweenthe dices. When the dices are connected in series, they automaticallyadjust their forward voltages and their luminous intensity become veryclose. In either arrangement the two dices have approximately theluminous intensity of 1.6×P_(i), where P_(i) is luminous intensity of asingle dice. A three dices LED will likely have the luminous intensityof about 2.26×P_(i). (Interference between the dices can prevent theluminous intensity calculation from being a multiplier by the number ofdice.) These dices can deliver the same color of light, or they can havedifferent colors of light. However, if each individual light emitteremits the same light, the luminous intensity of that color light fromthat one single LED is greater than a single standard LED emitting lightof one color.

A single LED could also contain two dices emitting different colors oflight, for example a wavelength selected from the range of greater thanabout 370, 380, 390, 400, 425, 440, 450, 475, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900,or 1,000 nanometers. The dices could also be selected such that thedices emit light of a different wavelength within the same color range;for example the dices could emit light having different wavelengths thatresult in the color blue. Further, the combination of the differentwavelengths of light at the single optical output of the LED (the lens)could result in a specific combination of colors that delivers an oralcare benefit. Some colors are difficult to achieve by a singlewavelength of light; this invention can be used to produce light of oneof these unique colors. Thus the combination of different colors at thesingle optical output may result in a color that cannot be achieved byone dice alone.

For those embodiments comprising multiple LEDs or an LED with multipledices, the oral hygiene implement of the present invention may providethe user with multiple signals. For example, a first dice may beenergized providing the user with a first visual indication. The firstvisual indication may correlate to a predetermined amount of timebrushed by the user, for example. A second dice may be energizedproviding the user with a second visual indication. The second visualindication may signal the user that it is time to replace the oral caredevice. In such embodiments, the first visual indication may comprisefirst color while the second visual indication comprises a second colorwhich is different than the first color. Any suitable colors may beutilized.

Toothbrushes constructed in accordance with the present invention mayprovide feedback to the user via the indication element for a variety ofconditions. For example, during a brushing session, a visible signal maybe provided when the user has brushed their teeth for a predeterminedamount of time, for example two minutes, three minutes, etc. As anotherexample, a visible signal may be provided to the user regarding when thebrush should be replaced. As yet another example, a visible signal maybe provided to the user regarding the time the user has brushed over anumber of brushing routines. As another example, a visible signal may beprovided to the user when too much force is applied to the brush headand therewith a chance is given that the user can damage his gums. Insuch embodiments, a first signal may be provided where the user hassuccessfully brushed for a requisite period of time, for example twominutes, for a predetermined number of brushing routines. A secondsignal may be provided to the user where the user has not brushes therequisite time for each and every of the predetermined number ofbrushing routines. Further signals may be sent from the toothbrush, forexample by using light in the infrared spectrum, such as wavelengths ofaround 950 nanometers. The indicator element can distribute the infraredsignal in all directions to assure that a receiver can receive signalseven if the toothbrush is hold in various positions.

The signal provided to the user may be constant, for example provide asignal to the user during the entire brushing routine. Alternatively,the signal provided to the user can be provided at the end of thebrushing routine. For example, where the user has not brushed for thepredetermined amount of time, for example two minutes, in a previousbrushing routine, the signal provided to the user may flash red or showa red visible signal for a predetermined time period during a subsequentbrushing routine. As another example, where the user brushed for apredetermined amount of time during a previous brushing routine, thesignal provided to the user may flash green or show a green visiblesignal for a predetermined period of time.

In other embodiments, the signal can be provided to the userintermittently during the brushing routine. For example, the signal canbe provided to the user on predetermined time intervals. For example, asignal may be provided to the user every 20 seconds. Any suitable timeinterval can be selected. For example, the time interval between signalscan be greater than about 0.1 second, greater than about 0.2 seconds,greater than about 0.3 seconds, greater than about 0.4 seconds, greaterthan about 0.5 seconds, greater than about 0.6 seconds, greater thanabout 0.7 seconds, greater than about 0.8 seconds, greater than about0.9 seconds, greater than about 1 second, greater than about 2 seconds,greater than about 3 seconds, greater than about 4 seconds, greater thanabout 5 seconds, greater than about 6 seconds, greater than about 10seconds, greater than about 15 seconds, greater than about 20 seconds,greater than about 25 seconds, greater than about 30 seconds, greaterthan about 40 seconds, greater than about 50 seconds, greater than about60 seconds, and/or less than about 60 seconds, less than about 50seconds, less than about 40 seconds, less than about 30 seconds, lessthan about 25 seconds, less than about 20 seconds, less than about 15seconds, less than about 10 seconds, less than about 5 seconds, lessthan about 4 seconds, less than about 3 seconds, less than about 2seconds, less than about 1.5 seconds, less than about 1, less than about0.9 seconds, less than about 0.8 seconds, less than about 0.7 seconds,less than about 0.6 seconds, less than about 0.5 seconds, less thanabout 0.4 seconds, less than about 0.2 seconds, or less than about 0.1seconds.

Previously, a time interval between signals was discussed. In someembodiments, a processor may be configured to modify the time intervalbetween the signals provided to the user either during a particularbrushing routine or over a series of brushing routines. For example,during a first brushing routine, if the user brushes for a predeterminedamount of time, for example two minutes, the interval between signals tothe user may be at a first time interval. If in a second brushingroutine, the user does not brush for the predetermined amount of time,the signals to the user may be at a second time interval. In such anembodiment, the first time interval may be greater than the second timeinterval thereby providing more feedback to the user. In someembodiments, the time intervals may be switched such that the user isprovided more feedback for brushing the predetermined amount of time.

In regard to the materials making up the toothbrush the outer shell 212may be any suitable material. Some examples of suitable materialsinclude polypropylene, ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer),ASA (acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate), copolyester, POM(polyaformaldeyde), combinations thereof, and the like. Additionalsuitable materials include polypropylene, nylon, high densitypolyethylene, other moldable stable polymers, the like, and/orcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, the handle, the neck, and/orthe head, may be formed from a first material and include recesses,channels, grooves, for receiving a second material which is differentfrom the first. For example, the handle may include an elastomeric gripfeature or a plurality of elastomeric grip features. The elastomersamong the plurality of elastomeric grip features may be similarmaterials or may be different materials, for example color, hardness,combinations thereof or the like.

The sealing element 270 may comprise any suitable material. Someexamples of suitable material include thermoplastic elastomers, siliconebased materials, NBR (nitrile butadiene rubber), EPDM (ethylenepropylene diene monomer), Viton™, etc.

In some embodiments, recycled and/or plant derived plastics may beutilized. For example, PET (polyethyelene terephthalate) may be utilizedin some embodiments. The PET may be bio based. For example, the PET maycomprise from about 25 to about 75 weight percent of a terephthalatecomponent and from about 20 to about 50 weight percent of a diolcomponent, wherein at least about one weight percent of at least one ofthe terephthalate and/or the diol component is derived from at least onebio-based material. Similarly, the terephthalate component may bederived from a bio based material. Some examples of suitable bio basedmaterials include but are not limited to corn, sugarcane, beet, potato,starch, citrus fruit, woody plant, cellulosic lignin, plant oil, naturalfiber, oily wood feedstock, and a combination thereof.

Some of the specific components of the PET may be bio based. Forexample, monoethylene glycol and terephthalic acid may be formed frombio based materials. The formation of bio based PET and its manufactureare described in United States Patent Application Publication Nos.20090246430A1 and 20100028512A1.

As mentioned previously, in certain embodiments for example as shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, the toothbrush 10 may include a replaceable head 14, neck16 or both. Specifically, the head 14 may be removable from the neck 16and/or the neck 16 may be removable from the handle 12. Herein, whetherthe head 14 is removable from the neck 16 or the neck 16 is removablefrom the handle 12, such replaceable elements will be termed “refills”.In such embodiments, the processor may be programmed with a plurality ofalgorithms in order to establish a time period for cumulative use of aparticular refill and/or for identification of a particular use. Somesuitable examples of oral care implements which can recognize aparticular refill are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,086,111; 7,207,080;and 7,024,717.

The interconnectivity between the neck 16 and the handle region 12 canbe provided in any suitable manner. Some suitable embodiments arediscussed with regard to U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,086,111, 7,207,080, and7,024,717.

The toothbrush of the present invention may further comprise a powersource as discussed previously. The power source may be any suitableelement which can provide power to the toothbrush. A suitable exampleincludes one or more batteries that may be sized in order to minimizethe amount of real estate required inside the toothbrush. For example,where the output source consists of a light emitting element the powersource may be sized relatively small, for example smaller than a tripleA battery. The battery may be rechargeable or may be disposable. In someembodiments, the power source may include alternating current power asprovided by a utility company to a residence. Other suitable powersources are described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/102,881,filed on Apr. 15, 2008, and entitled, “Personal Care Products andMethods”.

In some embodiments, a user operated switch may be provided which canallow the user to control when timing indication begins. The switch maybe in electrical communication with the power source and the outputsignal element and/or the timer.

The elastomeric grip features of the handle may be utilized to overmold,at least in part, a portion of the timer, output signaling element,processor, cap, and/or power source. In such embodiments, thesecomponents may be in electrical communication via wiring which cansimilarly be overmolded. The elastomeric grip features may includeportions which are positioned for gripping by the palm of the userand/or portions which are positioned for gripping by the thumb and indexfinger of the user. These elastomeric grip features may be composed ofthe same material or may be different, for example color, shape,composition, hardness, the like, and/or combinations thereof.

Additionally, as used herein, the term “contact elements” is used torefer to any suitable element which can be inserted into the oralcavity. Some suitable elements include bristle tufts, elastomericmassage elements, elastomeric cleaning elements, massage elements,tongue cleaners, soft tissue cleaners, hard surface cleaners,combinations thereof, and the like. The head may comprise a variety ofcontact elements. For example, the head may comprise bristles, abrasiveelastomeric elements, elastomeric elements in a particular orientationor arrangement, for example pivoting fins, prophy cups, or the like.Some suitable examples of elastomeric cleaning elements and/or massagingelements are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos.2007/0251040; 2004/0154112; 2006/0272112; and in U.S. Pat. Nos.6,553,604; 6,151,745. The cleaning elements may be tapered, notched,crimped, dimpled, or the like. Some suitable examples of these cleaningelements and/or massaging elements are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.6,151,745; 6,058,541; 5,268,005; 5,313,909; 4,802,255; 6,018,840;5,836,769; 5,722,106; 6,475,553; and U.S. Patent Application PublicationNo. 2006/0080794.

The contact elements may be attached to the head in any suitable manner.Conventional methods include stapling, anchor free tufting, andinjection mold tufting. For those contact elements that comprise anelastomer, these elements may be formed integral with one another, forexample having an integral base portion and extending outward therefrom.

The head may comprise a soft tissue cleanser constructed of any suitablematerial. Some examples of suitable material include elastomericmaterials; polypropylene, polyethylene, etc; the like, and/orcombinations thereof. The soft tissue cleanser may comprise any suitablesoft tissue cleansing elements. Some examples of such elements as wellas configurations of soft tissues cleansers on a toothbrush aredescribed in U.S. Patent Application Nos. 2006/0010628; 2005/0166344;2005/0210612; 2006/0195995; 2008/0189888; 2006/0052806; 2004/0255416;2005/0000049; 2005/0038461; 2004/0134007; 2006/0026784; 20070049956;2008/0244849; 2005/0000043; 2007/140959; and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,980,542;6,402,768; and 6,102,923.

For those embodiments which include an elastomeric element on a firstside of the head and an elastomeric element on a second side of the head(opposite the first), the elastomeric elements may be integrally formedvia channels or gaps which extend through the material of the head.These channels or gaps can allow elastomeric material to flow throughthe head during an injection molding process such that both theelastomeric elements of the first side and the second side may be formedin one injection molding step.

Test Method for Determining Light Emission Efficiency

Obtain three samples of the brush to be tested and three samples of theoutput source utilized in the brush. The samples of the output sourceshould be identical to that utilized in the brush. Take all samples,i.e. three brush samples and three samples of the output source, to anindependent testing facility. The testing facility will test each of thethree samples of the brush and each of the samples of the output sourcein an appropriately sized integrating sphere. For example, a 12 inchintegrating sphere may be suitable to fit the brush samples.

The testing facility will calibrate all equipment prior to measurementof any samples. The samples of the output source will be tested prior tothe testing of the brushes. The testing facility will place one sampleof the output source in the integrating sphere in accordance withstandard testing procedures. The output source will be powered by thesame voltage as that provided in the brush. Specifically, if the brushutilizes one 3.6 volt Li-ion battery, then the output source shallsimilarly be powered one 3.6 volt Li-Ion battery.

The output source shall be powered on, the integrating sphere closed,and the total light radiated from the output source shall be measured.Each of the remaining samples of output source shall be measuredsimilarly. The total light output of each of the samples of outputsource will be recorded and noted by each sample.

Remove the sample output source from the integrating sphere prior totesting a sample brush. Place a sample brush in the integrating sphereconfigured in such a manner as to activate the output source of thebrush without blocking the light emitted from the indication element ofthe brush. For example, where the indication element provides a visualindication of too much pressure being applied, a harness may be utilizedto move the head/neck of the brush to ensure that the indicationelement/output source is activated. Measure the total light radiatedfrom the sample brush. Repeat for the remaining samples of brush.

The total light radiated from sample output source one will be dividedby the total light radiated from sample brush one. The quotient is thenmultiplied by 100 to determine percent one. The total light radiatedfrom sample output source two will be divided by the total lightradiated from sample brush two. The quotient is then multiplied by 100to determine percentage two. The total light radiated from sample outputsource three will be divided by the total light radiated from samplebrush three. The quotient is then multiplied by 100 to determinedpercentage three. The percentages one, two, and three, are averaged toobtain the percent efficiency.

The dimensions and values disclosed herein are not to be understood asbeing strictly limited to the exact numerical values recited. Instead,unless otherwise specified, each such dimension is intended to mean boththe recited value and a functionally equivalent range surrounding thatvalue. For example, a dimension disclosed as “40 mm” is intended to mean“about 40 mm.”

Every document cited herein, including any cross referenced or relatedpatent or application, is hereby incorporated herein by reference in itsentirety unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation ofany document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect toany invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in anycombination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests ordiscloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning ordefinition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning ordefinition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, themeaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shallgovern.

While particular embodiments of the present invention have beenillustrated and described, it would be obvious to those skilled in theart that various other changes and modifications can be made withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is thereforeintended to cover in the appended claims all such changes andmodifications that are within the scope of this invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An oral hygiene implement comprising a handle, ahead, and a neck disposed between the handle and the head, the headcomprising a plurality of contact elements extending from a firstsurface, the oral hygiene implement further comprising: an output sourcewherein the output source is a light; a transmission element inelectromagnetic energy communication with the output source wherein thetransmission element and the output source are discrete; a transmissionelement ring comprising a bottom edge and in electromagnetic energycommunication with the transmission element; a reflective core disposedwithin the transmission element, wherein the reflective core redirectselectromagnetic energy from the output source to an indication element;wherein the indication element disposed between the handle and the neckcomprises an outer lateral surface extending around a circumferencewherein light is emitted from the lateral surface of the indicationelement and wherein the light is distributed approximately evenly aroundthe circumference.
 2. The oral hygiene implement of claim 1 wherein thereflective core comprises one or more faces.
 3. The oral hygieneimplement of claim 2 wherein the faces are polished.
 4. The oral hygieneimplement of claim 2 wherein the reflective core is wedge shaped.
 5. Theoral hygiene implement of claim 1 wherein the reflective core comprisesan empty recess.
 6. The oral hygiene implement of claim 1 wherein thetransmission element is non-linear.
 7. The oral hygiene implement ofclaim 1 wherein the bottom edge of the transmission element ringcomprises a reflective surface.
 8. The oral hygiene implement of claim 1wherein the bottom edge of the transmission element ring comprises aplurality of surface contours.
 9. The oral hygiene implement of claim 8wherein the transmission element ring comprises at least three surfacecontours and the distance between the surface contours varies.
 10. Theoral hygiene implement of claim 8 wherein there are fewer surfacecontours near the reflective core as compared to the number of surfacecontours away from the reflective core.
 11. The oral hygiene implementof claim 8 wherein one or more surface contours are positioned on aninner surface of the transmission element ring.
 12. The oral hygieneimplement of claim 1, wherein the transmission element comprises atleast one curve or angle.
 13. The oral hygiene implement of claim 1,wherein the transmission element ring comprises one or more surfacecontours.
 14. The oral hygiene implement of claim 1 wherein theindication element signals to a user one or more conditions selectedfrom the group consisting of when a user has brushed for an adequateamount of time, when the toothbrush needs to be replaced, when the useris brushing too hard, and combinations thereof.
 15. The oral hygieneimplement of claim 14 wherein the indication element signals to a usertwo or more conditions.
 16. The oral hygiene implement of claim 1wherein the head further comprises a second surface, opposite the firstsurface and wherein a tongue cleaner extends from the second surface.17. The oral hygiene implement of claim 1 wherein the light is an LED.